World Investment Forum Explores Private Sector Role in Development Financing

The World Investment Forum 2026, currently taking place in Doha, hosted a panel discussion on the role of the private sector in financing development in developing countries, Qatar News Agency (QNA) said in a statement.

The session addressed the significant financing gaps that hinder development, as public resources are insufficient to meet growing investment needs.

Participants explored ways to turn these gaps into investment opportunities with the help of development finance institutions.

Egypt's Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, Dr. Mohamed Farid Saleh, emphasized the importance of clear and stable monetary and fiscal policies in building investor confidence.

He added that attracting capital requires predictability and clarity in a country's monetary and fiscal policy direction.

Dr. Saleh also stressed the need to update investment and trade policies, streamline bureaucratic procedures, and facilitate the approval process.

Somalia's Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ali Mohammed Omar, highlighted the challenges faced by least developed countries and those emerging from conflict.

He emphasized the role of economic diplomacy in removing barriers and building partnerships to attract capital.

Omar outlined Somalia's reforms, including debt reduction and clearance, adoption of an investor-friendly investment law, and designation of special economic zones.

The Secretary-General of the Secretariat of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Wamkele Mene, stressed the importance of integrating Africa's regional market to make the continent a more attractive investment destination.

He highlighted the growth of African private sector investment and the critical role of African development finance institutions in mitigating risks and stimulating private capital.

Qatar Development Bank CEO Abdulrahman Hisham Al Suwaidi also participated in the discussion.

The forum aims to identify practical pathways to advance sustainable development by bringing together perspectives from governments, development finance institutions, the private sector, and international organizations.

The World Investment Forum 2026 provides a platform for stakeholders to discuss ways to address financing gaps and mobilize private sector participation in development financing.

Developing countries face significant challenges in attracting private sector investment, including weak institutions, infrastructure deficits, and uncertainty over their financial outlook.

The private sector's role in financing development is crucial, as public resources alone are insufficient to meet growing investment needs.